Caraga InFocus – July 13-19, 2019

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[ Contents 13 - 19 July 2019

Volume III, No. 48

DA, PhilRice intensify public awareness on Rice Tariffication Law REGIONAL NEWS

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RDRRMC Caraga to locals: Be well-informed, proactive

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Army conducts security awareness drive to students of Butuan City OWWA-NRCO Caraga awards livelihood starter kits to distressed undocumented OFWs Over 1K residents benefit from PNP’s community outreach program in SurSur

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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17 FRs receive cash assistance in SurSur town AgNor to adopt rebels willing to surrender to government

NATIONAL NEWS

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Soldiers counter stress through health awareness

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Farmers’ group disowns CNTs

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PCOO brings open gov’t dialogues to Cebu Private sector presents 10-point policy action plan to government

PRRD signs law granting 20% fare discount to students DOH declares national dengue alert

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Mindanao leaders bat for stronger link with Indonesia, BIMP-EAGA NEDA panel OKs cost increases in Mindanao railway, MM bridges

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MINDANAO NEWS

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News Briefs In celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week in the province of Agusan del Norte, PSWDO the 1st Agusan del Norte Paralympics Competition (Bowling and Billiard) in Butuan City.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology - Surigao del Norte, in partnership with the city government of Surigao City and Department of Trade and Industry - Surigao City, will be offering a FREE Rural Impact Sourcing Technical Training: Digital Marketing come August. (DICT-Caraga) The municipality of Carmen on Tuesday declared a state of calamity thru SB Resolution # 20 s. 2019 following the damages caused by the 5.5 mag. earthquake that hit the province on July 13.

Stop Human Trafficking! Don’t hesitate to save lives! Report to the 1343 Actionline or (02) 1343 (outside Metro Manila).

The DILG, a member of the Inter-agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) and the Lead Shepherd of the ASEAN region on Anti-Trafficking in Persons, urges the public to report trafficking violations. The 1343 Actionline is a 24/7 hotline facility that responds to emergency or crisis calls from victims of human trafficking and concerned citizens. (DILG)

Cover Story

DA, PhilRice intensify public awareness on Rice Tariffication Law

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

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UTUAN CITY - In order to reach the grassroots and inform the farmers on what awaits them with the implementation of Republic Act 11203 or Rice Tarrification Law, the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), in partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga, have shared the salient features of the said law thru the program dubbed “Caraga INFOcus: Agri Hour.”

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JULY 13-19, 2019

According to DA Caraga assistant regional director Nestor Burgos, the Rice Tariffication Law, which seeks to liberalize the importation of rice, is expected to lower retail prices of rice and improve the farmers’ income and productivity.

The law covers four components, namely; Seed, Rice Mechanization, Extension and Loan components.

Marisa Garces, rice program focal person of DA-Caraga bared that under the said law, a P10-billion rice fund composed of duties collected from imported rice will be spent for programs that would directly result to

increase in production, profitability, and competitiveness.

Dr. Genevive Nemeùo, supervising science research specialist of PhilRice – Agusan also emphasized that the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Program - seed component will help increase the adoption of certified inbred rice seeds and its corresponding intergrated crop management.

NemeĂąo added that in order for the farmers to avail of the rice fund, they must be a member of any farmer organization, as funds will be released thru accredited group or cooperative.

It can be recalled that the Rice Tarrification was put into law on February 14, 2019 and started its implementation on March 5, 2019.

(JPG/PIA-Caraga) JULY 13-19, 2019

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REGIONAL NEWS

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

RDRRMC Caraga to locals: Be well-informed, proactive

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY – In time with the press conference on the National Disaster Resilience Month (NDRM), the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) chaired by Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Caraga regional director Liza Mazo, called on locals to be “well-informed and proactive citizens.”

Mazo stressed that all should take multi-sectoral coordination as it is also their part in the promotion of a disaster situated in strategic location where resilient region and nation as a whole. there is already a warehouse for relief goods,” she said.

“All should not be dependent on what the government could do to Regional director Dominga save them in times of disaster. Everyone Mallonga of the Department of should also be well-informed and be Science and Technology (DOST) proactive at all times,” she said.

Caraga cited that in order to properly monitor and provide accurate

She further announced that the information especially during disasters, establishment of the state-of-the-art an assessment of the early warning Caraga Regional Operations Center signals and other installations has been cum OCD Caraga Regional Office conducted by the agency. funded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development will soon She also reiterated that the local be operational. “It will be a hub for government units could maximize the JULY 13-19, 2019

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

utilization of the detailed flood hazard communities of the region thru the maps for their guidance and incorporate conduct of basic life support training, it in the disaster preparedness plan. among others. She added that their recent activities include the provision

Dr. Ernesto Pareja of the of school bags and school supplies to Department of Health Caraga said they the Indigenous Peoples’ children in have personnel and nurses assigned different parts of the region. in different areas, so any incident where their assistance is needed are LTC Jezreel Diagmel of the 401st all properly reported and responded. Brigade, Philippine Army highlighted Their personnel have constantly been their readiness to extend assistance coordinating with the LGUs in the to the LGUs not only during calamities provinces of Caraga. They also maintain but in any eventuality. He said the a 24/7 hotline to provide immediate Brigade has also intensified its efforts response in times of emergencies. in increasing awareness on disaster preparedness, mitigation and resilience

Bureau of Fire Protection Caraga to the communities. regional director FSSupt. Romel Tradio announced that they will conduct a Meanwhile, Mazo thanked all school-based fire safety, survival and the media partners for their continued emergency preparedness training support to the activities and endeavors targeting scouts in the region. Activities of the council. She also recognized the will be conducted to enhance their skills media partners’ contribution thru their in emergency response and to prepare advocacy in making people disaster them when a disaster strikes. resilient at all times.

Also, Police Major Marife Farol of the Philippine National Police Caraga said that their agency has been reaching out to the locals in different

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This year’s observance is anchored on the theme “Kahandaan sa Sakuna’t Peligro Para sa Tunay na Pagbabago.”

(JPG/VLG/NCLM/PIA-Caraga)

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

Army conducts security awareness drive to students of Butuan City BUTUAN CITY – The 402nd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army recently conducted a security awareness drive to selected senior high school students of Butuan City held at the 402nd Brigade Headquarters, Brgy. Bancasi, Butuan City.

In line with the Project S.U.R.O.Y. (Simple Unwinding and Recreational Outing for the Youth) spearheaded

by Butuan City Police Office (BCPO), personnel of 402nd Brigade led by Civil Military Operations Officer Major Francisco P. Garello, Jr. conducted a security awareness drive to 35 senior high school students coming from Barangays San Mateo, Nong-Nong and Tungao, all of Butuan City.

Our youth is one of the most vulnerable sector in our society and we must protect them from being used as pawns by the CPP-NPA-NDF against our government troops,” Garello said.

“The army recognizes its duty to inform the youth about the nature of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) – New People’s Army (NPA) Terrorists or CNTs and their deceptive and manipulative recruitment strategy.

They were also given lecture on how to join the Philippine Army and its recruitment process.

Likewise, the senior high school students were educated through a static display of the Infantry Brigade squad and a film showing highlighting the different facets of being a soldier.

The baranagays of San Mateo, Nong-Nong and Tungao were identified

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Regional News I Empowering Communities as CNT-affected areas but have withdrawn their support through their declaration of the CNTs and its allied left-leaning groups as persona non grata in their respective barangays.

According to Col. Maurito L. Licudine, commander of 402nd Infantry Brigade, the youth is the hope of tomorrow and we are pleased that in partnership with the PNP we were able to reach out to this group of young people so that they will not be easily swayed by the sweet talking of the CNTs.

agitating them with the social problems of our country and dragging them into the armed struggle. It is right to take active part in looking for peaceful solutions but it is not right to bear arms to solve these problems,” he said.

Licudine is appealing to the CNTs to spare the children from their violent way of life. “Give them a chance to grow up; a chance to achieve their aspirations; and be successful in life.

“As for the CNTs, heed our call to surrender, avail the E-CLIP and live peacefully with your families and love

“The youth must be wary of those ones,” urged Licudine. (402nd Infantry who exploit their youthful idealism, Brigade/PIA-Caraga)

OWWA-NRCO Caraga awards livelihood starter kits to distressed undocumented OFWs

BUTUAN CITY - The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Regional Welfare Office – Caraga through its attached office, the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO), has recently awarded livelihood starter kits composed of two piglets, three sacks of feeds and vitamins to five distressed undocumented OFWs under the NRCO’s Livelihood Development Assistance Program (LDAP).

About three of these beneficiaries are from Del Carmen in Siargao Islands, one from Surigao City and one from Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

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One of the beneficiaries, Georgette Vestil Pal from Barangay Songkoy, Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte, was personally visited in her

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

residence by OWWA Caraga officerin-charge Ma. Ireen Cambaling and NRCO support staff Berly Sain to award the starter kit and to relieve her from traveling to Surigao City, which would take her more or less than two hours.

Pal thanked OWWA-NRCO for the livelihood starter kits she had received and did not expect to receive two piglets instead of one, including feeds and vitamins, which made her even happier and that, she can now start her proposed business.

Meanwhile, the remaining starter kits were awarded at the DOLE – Surigao del Norte Field Office.

The LDAP is a livelihood grant intervention consists of livelihood startup kit worth P10,000, small business management training and financial awareness seminar intended to bring about improved socio-economic wellbeing for returning and undocumented OFWs.

Eligible beneficiary under the program shall be any undocumented OFWs who have returned in the Philippines.

An undocumented OFW is defined as: those who acquired their passports through fraud or misrepresentation; those who possess expired visa or permits to stay; those who have no travel documents whatsoever; those who have valid but inappropriate visa; or those employment contracts which were not processed by the POEA or subsequently verified and registered on-site by POLO, if required by law or regulation.

For more information, visit the National Reintegration Center for OFWs (NRCO) – Caraga at OWWA Caraga Training Hall, Nimfa Tiu Bldg II, JP Rosales Ave., Butuan City or visit its website at www.nrco.dole.gov.ph or message them in their Facebook account at Nrco Owwa Caraga. (NRCO/OWWA/ PIA-Caraga)

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Regional News I Empowering Communities

Over 1K residents benefit from PNP’s community outreach program in SurSur

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - More than 1,000 local residents of Barangay Javier, Barobo, Surigao del Sur benefitted from the community outreach program of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Caraga.

The locals were delighted to have availed the free medical and dental check-up, as well as the free haircut, medicines, food packs, school supplies, slippers, and eyeglasses.

of Barobo is among the identified conflict-affected areas in the region, and declared the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPANDF) as persona non-grata, to protect and save their constituents against the NPAs as the communist-terrorist groups have been causing chaos in their community.

The said activity formed part of the PNP’s “Project Kasing-kasing” or “Project Heart,” which is a flagship program that aims to help the underprivileged in the remote communities and strengthen police-community ties to effectively Cruz further bared that several address criminality and insurgency in violent incidents have already been the region. recorded in Barangay Javier, which

According to PNP-Caraga include the NPA’s burning of container regional director Police Brigadier vans filled with export-quality bananas General Gilberto DC Cruz, the project in 2013. also aims to intensify the good The community outreach partnership between the PNP and the locals, and their cooperation towards program is part of the PNP’s initiatives preventing the problem on insurgency. in implementing Executive Order 70 or the whole of nation approach in the

The official also said that combat against insurgency. (JPG/PIABarangay Javier in the municipality Caraga)

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JULY 13-19, 2019

PROVINCIAL NEWS

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities

17 FRs receive cash assistance in SurSur town

By Nida Grace B. Tranquilan

TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur - A total of 17 Former Rebels (FRs) received cash assistance as part of their reintegration to the mainstream society under the EnhancedComprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) held at the Municipal Mayor’s Office of San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on July 4, 2019.

Civil Military Operations Officer Lt. Jonald Romorosa of the 36th Infantry Battalion (36IB) revealed that each FR received P10,000 during the awarding ceremony led by Mayor Hazel Elizalde.

The said assistance partly aids to start the new life of the FRs and their families to live better lives together with their families and avail the government free basic services offered, said Romorosa.

“The government puts forth its utmost and sincerest effort in providing the assistance intended for FRs,” said Elizalde.

Meanwhile, 36IB commanding officer Lt. Colonel Xerxes Trinidad said the government is sincere in their gesture in helping the FRs return to the mainstream society and start a new life in peace and harmony.

“These benefits do not serve as an end,

Mayor Elizalde highlighted the but rather a means to aid the FRs in commitment of the local government securing a foothold in restarting their of San Miguel under her administration lives,” said Trinidad. (PIA-Surigao del to support the FRs. Sur)

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities

AgNor to adopt rebels willing to surrender to government

By Jennifer P. Gaitano

BUTUAN CITY - To give chance to former rebels (FRs) and let them experience a better life, the province of Agusan del Norte has expressed willingness and interest to adopt those rebels who wanted to surrender and live a normal life in the mainstream society and be with their family.

With this development, a halfway house for the former rebels is being constructed for their temporary shelter once they surrender to the government.

This also serves as a transition home and rehabilitation center for the FRs and Militia ng Bayan.

said.

Political officer of Sotero Llamas of Bicol Regional Party Committee, Agnes Lopez Fernandez also known as “Ka Tina/Ka Jorge/Ka Yolly,� also called on to her former comrades to leave the organization and return to the folds of

According to Ali Kazim Marcaban, the law, and live a peaceful life. coordinator of the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration As a former rebel, Fernandez is Program (E-CLIP) in Agusan del Norte, thankful to the provincial government the provincial government continues of Agusan del Norte for its constant to implement the program, where it support especially in providing funds, provides psychosocial interventions; programs and services for her co-former individual case management to each rebels. former rebel; facilitate their chosen livelihood project; and capacitate Meanwhile, a formulation them in their reintegration to the workshop for the halfway house manual communities. of operations was also conducted to ensure rightful implementation of the

This is apart from the regular halfway house rules by next year. (JPG/ financial assistance to former rebels, he NCLM/PIA-Caraga) JULY 13-19, 2019

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Soldiers counter stress through health awareness

PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Ever Onward Troopers of the 26th Infantry Battalion (26IB), Philippine Army, have recently undergone lectures on health awareness held at the headquarters’ multipurpose hall, Talacogon, this province.

Dr. Rolly Dacera, head doctor of Talacogon District Hospital and medical retainer of 26IB, together with Janis Eryl Jandayan and Erwin Perez, facilitated the lectures particularly on lifestyle diseases and related health problems emphasizing on hypertension, its cause, complications and how to avoid it, in which the soldiers were eager to learn.

“Hypertension or commonly known as high blood pressure is timely and common health problems nowadays especially for those individuals with undesirable lifestyle,” Dr. Dacera said.

He also conveyed that they will continue to provide health care support to the soldiers including their families.

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They will also help the Philippine Army in giving health assistance to the community.

In his statement, Lt. Col. Romeo Jimenea, 26IB commander said, “Health is wealth, it must not be taken for granted especially for our troops.”

“Increasing the health awareness of our troops will equip them not only in performing their duties but also in combating diseases and countering stress. It will be their greatest weapon to carry out the mission for serving our people and securing our motherland,” Jimenea added. (26IB, PA/PIA-Agusan del Sur)

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities

Farmers’ group disowns CNTs By 1Lt Roel Maglalang

BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – Members of Unyon ng Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Norte or UMAN, a known New Peoples Army (NPA) allied organization, recently disowned the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) New Peoples Army (NPA) Terrorists or CNT group and took their pledge of loyalty and allegiance to the government during a Peace Consultation Dialogue held in Barangay Bitan-agan, Butuan City.

In a dialogue initiated by the Barangay Council of Barangay Bitanagan, in partnership with the local government unit of Butuan City and the 23rd Infantry (Masigasig) Battalion, more than 150 UMAN members, NPA supporters and residents of Barangay Bitan-agan, Butuan City have denounced their support to the CNTs.

tenure; livelihood and employment; youth recruitment; and peace and order, among others.

The UMAN is an organization used by the CPP-NPA Terrorists to recruit farmers as its source of manpower, finance and logistics. Members are being made to pay dues with a promise to give them the lands that they are

The dialogue was aimed to tilling. address the issues raised by the residents and the former members of UMAN According to Joseph (not his real in the said area. Some of the issues name), “Kung nakahibalo lang mi sa discussed include he security of land una na mao ang tomong sa UMAN, JULY 13-19, 2019

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Provincial News I Empowering Communities wala mi unta nag-apil. Nagpasalig sila na tagaan mig yuta. Kinsa bay dili ganahag yuta busa niapil mi nila.

Pero, nabutang hinuon mi sa kasamok.

Paningkamutan namo na mausab among kinabuhi pinaagi sa mga programa sa atong gobyerno (If we only knew the real intent of UMAN, we could not have joined them. They promised to give us land so we joined them, only to find ourselves lodged in turmoil. We’ll do our best to straighten up our lives through the programs of our government).”

After taking their pledge of loyalty and allegiance to the government, they took an oath to disown UMAN, end their support to the CPP-NPA-NDF, and not to succumb to any group who will organize and take advantage of them.

Meanwhile, Lola Agnes, a former rebel (FR) and the National President of People’s Advocacy for Collaborationand Empowerment (PEACE), which is an organization of FRs, explained the deception strategies and tactics of the CNTs in recruiting their members.

“Hangga’t may armado sa lugar ninyo, hindi kayo uunlad. Hanggang kailan ba matatapos ang patayan na walang saysay? Kung talagang para sa bayan pinaglalaban ng mga NPA, bakit nila sinisira ang mga tulay at gusali na itinayo ng gobyerno? Bakit sa loob ng singkwentang taon wala silang naitayong paaralan, tulay, kalsada, health centers o kahit mamigay man lang ng mga gamot? Mamulat na

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tayo sa katotohanan. Huwag na tayong magpaloko at magpagamit sa komonistang NPA,” she said.

Moreover, Lt. Colonel Francisco Molina Jr, Commanding Officer, 23IB encouraged the former members of UMAN and CNT supporters to stop supporting the CNTs.

He said “Akong giawhag ang tanan na dili na mag-apil-apil sa grupong UMAN og magsuporta sa Teroristang CPP-NPA. Kung inyo ning ipadayon mabutang lang sa piligro ang inyong kinabuhi. Walay maayong mahatag ang Teroristang CPP-NPA kung dili kadautan og kagubot (I encourage everyone not to join UMAN anymore and support the CNTs. It will not give you good but only destroys and makes your lives miserable),” Molina added.

In his statement, Col. Maurito Licudine, 402nd Brigade Commander said “the trend of shift of support is the result of the convergence of effort being orchestrated and initiated by the local government leaders. The game changer in addressing the insurgency problem here in Caraga.”

Lastly, Col. Licudine emphasized that with the Executive Order No. 70, the government shall prioritize and harmonize the delivery of basic services and social development in the conflict-affected areas and vulnerable communities facilitate social inclusivity and ensure participation of all sectors.

(NCLM/CMO Officer, 23IB, 4ID, PA/PIA Agusan del Norte)

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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities

Mindanao leaders bat for stronger link with Indonesia, BIMP-EAGA

By Digna Banzon

DAVAO CITY – Leaders in Mindanao region have vowed to sustain and improve both economic ties and cultural exchanges anchored on years of bilateral relations between Philippines and Indonesia.

Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) chair Nathaniel Dalumpines, in his message during the recent opening of Wonderful Indonesia Tourism, Food, and Trade Expo 2019, said it is good for more people especially the youth, to know and appreciate the culture of its BIMP-EAGA (Brunei-IndonesiaMalaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area) neighbors through exhibits and activities and the holding of the business networking sessions.

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Such activities, according to him, can further strengthen business connections and linkages.

The expo showcases Indonesia’s authentic food and delicacies and other export quality products like herbs, coffee, and other beverages.

Indonesia’s top tourist destinations were highlighted in a campaign spearheaded by the foreign country’s Ministry of Tourism, with seven travel

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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities agencies offering packages to Bali, 12 to 14.

Jakarta, Surabaya, Lombok, and other unexplored must-visit sites.

In support of strengthening efforts on Mindanao-Indonesia relations,

Department of Foreign Affairs Dalumpines announced that MV Baltic (DFA) Mindanao Assistant Secretary Summer, the vessel utilized by Reefer Norman Garibay said the expo can Express Line Filipinas for Davao-Bitung be considered as an infusion of fresh route arrived Friday afternoon in time blood to the BIMP-EAGA which was the for the opening of the Wonderful reason their office was established.

Indonesia Expo.

“There are changing realities in the island especially with the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and the growing economic significance in Mindanao, the Davao Region and Davao City,” Garibay stressed.

“I hope the resumption of the route spurs on more trading activities between our local entrepreneurs and their Indonesian counterparts,” he said.

He added that the shipping service has gained the strong support of the government and private sector of Indonesia and that works must continue

Cultural presentations were also to ensure sufficient cargo load in order held during the Expo that runs from July to sustain the said route. (PNA)

NEDA panel OKs cost increases in Mindanao railway, MM bridges MANILA – The National Economic and Development Authority Board’s Investment Coordination Committee-Cabinet Committee (ICC-CabCom) on July 10, 2019 approved changes in two ongoing projects.

These include the increase in cost for the Mindanao Railway Project Phase 1-Tagum-Davao-Digos Segment (MRP-TDD), and the implementation extension of the Metro Manila Priority Bridges Seismic Improvement Project.

cost of PHP35.9 billion in 2017—will cover changes in cost of structural and construction works, among others.

In terms of scope, the ICCCabCom also approved the additional Davao Satellite Depot of the MRP-TDD.

For the MRP-TDD, the project cost increase amounting to PHP82.9 For the Metro Manila Priority billion—from its previously approved Bridges Seismic Improvement Project, JULY 13-19, 2019

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Mindanao News I Empowering Communities while ensuring quality,� said Socioeconomic P l a n n i n g Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia, who co-chaired the meeting with DOF Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez.

Meanwhile, it was reported in the same meeting that the NEDA Board confirmed ad referendum the ICCCabCom approval of changes in three projects, namely:

the cost increases to PHP7.9 billion from PHP4.3 billion will cover the changes in construction technology to be applied to the Guadalupe Bridge, putting up of temporary detour bridges in Guadalupe, and additional work shift 1. Implementation of extension to reduce the construction period, and loan validity extension of the among others.

Central Luzon Link Expressway (CLLEX) Project, Phase I of the Department of

In addition, the implementation Public Works and Highways. extension of one year and eight months until August 2023, inclusive of 2. Change in project cost and a one-year defects liability period, scope of works and extension of loan will help the project catch up with its validity and implementation duration target completion date. of the National Irrigation Sector Rehabilitation and Improvement

The ICC-CabCom also noted the Project (NISRIP) of the National inclusion of the Project Management Irrigation Authority.

Consultant with a cost of PHP14.39 billion, inclusive of VAT and contingencies, in 3. Change in project scope and the scope of works for the PNR South loan validity extension of the Metro Long-Haul Project.

Manila Wastewater Management Project (MWMP) of the Land Bank of

“We see changes in scope and the Philippines. cost as opportunities to optimize the project components and update These latter changes had been the estimates. The Government approved by the ICC-CabCom on aims to speed up implementation May 17, 2019.

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NATIONAL NEWS

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National News I Empowering Communities SEC. MARTIN ANDANAR PCOO

NEWS CORNER

PCOO brings open gov’t dialogues to Cebu

new landmark reforms, but also in further strengthening existing measures.

“Dagyaw, or bayanihan, in the language of our origins, is the name we have chosen to underline the concerted cooperation of the major pillars of our reformed governance. These are: the people, the lead persons of the executive departments, and the president,” Andanar said.

“This is the triumvirate convergence of the objective of dagyaw, which is simply, the participation of the people in governance,” the PCOO chief added.

CEBU CITY - Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Tuesday led the second regional town hall meeting here, as part of the Duterte administration’s continuing efforts to bring government services closer to the people.

The word “dagyaw” is a Hiligaynon term for “bayanihan,” which exemplifies the concept of “togetherness.” It is envisioned to be one of the main government campaigns that will provide avenues for productive, valuable, sincere, and visible engagement between government and the people

“You can confront the top officials at the local level. of the line agencies in a constructively critical conversation for the public “This is participatory democracy services that you, the people, expect to in action, where the seated spectators be delivered. The bureaucratic web of are the people themselves, all of you,” problems and glitches can expeditiously Andanar told the town hall meeting evaporate, with dialogue, and direct participants. resolutions,” Andanar said during his speech held at the Cebu Provincial In his speech, Andanar also Capitol Social Hall here. highlighted the results of the recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.

The Dagyaw 2019: Open The survey showed President Duterte’s Government and Participatory public satisfaction rating reaching a Governance Regional Dialogues new record-high in the second quarter encourage participation in dialogues of 2019 in which 80 percent of Filipinos between government agencies, the are satisfied. public, and other stakeholders. This initiative likewise aims to solicit ideas and Andanar emphasized the stories that would help, not only in crafting importance of freedom of information,

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National News I Empowering Communities which opens for the people the documents and data of the entire executive departments except those involving highly classified national security matters.

of Tourism Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado III, representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Trade and Industry, and the Department of Budget and Management attended

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn the The Dagyaw 2019 Cebu City town Garcia, Department of National Defense hall meeting. DBM Assistant Secretary Undersecretary Cesar Yano, Department Rolando Toledo moderated the forum.

Andanar, inilahad ang mga magiging bahagi ng ‘Duterte legacy’ LUNGSOD NG SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Inilahad ni Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Martin Andanarang mga pagbabagong mangyayari sa nalalabing tatlong taon ng administrasyong Duterte.

sinabi ni Andanar na magkakaroon ng underground train system sa Kalakhang Maynila at istasyon ng tren mula Tutuban hanggang Clark.

Isa rito, aniya, ang paglaban sa kahirapan at ang bisyon ng pamahalaang makamit ng Pilipinas ang upper middle class na estado hanggang 2022.

Binigyang-diin niya ang kahalagahan ng kapayapaan at kaayusan sa proseso ng pag-unlad.

Sinabi rin niya na hindi na kailangang pumunta pa sa Ninoy Aquino International

Sa kanyang pagbisita sa Pampanga, Airport ng mga residente ng Gitna at binanggit niyang may tatlong bagay na Hilagang Luzon sa sandaling matapos magiging bahagi ng legacy ni Pangulong ang pagpapalawak sa terminal ng Clark Rodrigo R. Duterte.

International Airport.

Aniya, isa sa layunin ng Pangulo na

Ayon sa kalihim, pangako ng wakasan ang komunismo sa bansa dahil hindi administrasyong Duterte na pababain ang ito magiging progresibo kung laging may antas ng kahirapan mula 21 hanggang 14 alitan at digmaan. porsyento sa katapusan ng kanyang termino.

Sa kanyang unang tatlong taon bilang

Dagdag ni Andanar, batay sa Pangulo, nakapagpatupad na si Pangulong pagtatasa ng mga nasa sektor ng ekonomiya Duterte ng iba’t ibang mga reporma sa at pagnenegosyo, positibo silang makakamit pamahalaan. ng Pilipinas ang inaasam nitong estado hanggang sa taong 2022.

Kabilang dito ang libreng edukasyon para sa mga mag-aaral sa mga pampublikong

Binanggit din niya ang programang kolehiyo at unibersidad; libreng irigasyon para Build Build Build na tutulong sa pagbaba ng sa mga magsasakang may apat na ektarya ng antas ng kahirapan sa pamamagitan ng lupa; karagdagang benepisyo sa PhilHealth paglikha ng mas maraming trabaho. at Social Security System; no deposit bill sa mga ospital; at ang Bangsamoro Organic

Sa ilalim ng administrasyong Duterte, Law. JULY 13-19, 2019

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National News I Empowering Communities

PRRD signs law granting 20% fare discount to students

By Azer Parrocha

MANILA - Like senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs), students will now be granted a 20 percent discount on all public utility vehicles as long as they present their school IDs.

This after President Rodrigo Duterte signed the “Student Fare Discount Act” (R.A. 11314) into law on April 17, 2019.

A copy of the document was given to media on Monday (July 15).

Duterte signed this new law to “encourage students, particularly the poor, and underprivileged, to pursue quality education to secure their future and make them responsible citizens.”

“A student under this Act shall be entitled to a grant of 20% discount on domestic regular fares, upon personal presentation of their duly-issued school identification cards (IDs) or current validated enrollment form, supported by the prescribed government-issued identification document, subject to an appropriate verification mechanism to be provided in the implementing rules and regulations,” the law read.

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Only Filipino students in elementary, secondary, technical-vocational, or higher education institutions can avail of the discount privilege.

The discount privilege does not apply to students in post graduate degree courses and informal short-term courses such as dancing, swimming, music, and driving lessons, and seminar type of courses.

It covers all public transportation utilities including public utility buses, public utility jeepneys, taxis, and other similar vehicles-for-hire tricycles, passenger trains, aircraft, and marine vessels.

However, the law does not cover school service, tourist service, and any similar service covered by contract or charter agreement and

JULY 13-19, 2019

National News I Empowering Communities with valid franchise or permit from the Transport utilities that refuse to Land Transportation Franchising and grant the student the fare discount Regulatory Board (LTFRB). privilege will face penalties including suspension of driver’s license, fines

Students can only avail of this ranging from PHP1,000 to PHP15,000, discount during the time they are and the cancelation of their certificates enrolled including weekends and of public convenience. (PNA) holidays.

DOH declares national dengue alert

By Ma. Teresa Montemayor

MANILA — Health Secretary Francisco Duque III declared on Monday a national dengue alert due to the rapid increase of dengue cases in several regions of the country.

Duque reported that Region 4-B (Mimaropa), Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Northern Mindanao have exceeded the epidemic threshold for dengue.

declaring a localized epidemic at the barangay level,” Duque said in a press briefing.

Meanwhile, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Calabarzon, Bicol, Eastern

“Clustering of cases must be Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Davao, identified by the Department of Health Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (DOH) regional office as a basis for in Muslim Mindanao, and Cordillera JULY 13-19, 2019

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National News I Empowering Communities Administrative Region, are being monitored after exceeding the alert threshold.

According to the DOH Epidemiology Bureau, the dengue cases nationwide has reached a cumulative figure of 106,630, which is 85 percent higher compared to the same period last year at 57,564 cases.

of disease are severe headache, pain behind the eyes, severe joint and muscle pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting,

Most cases are from Western and skin rashes,” he said.

Visayas — 13,164; Calabarzon – 11,474; Central Visayas – 9,199; Soccsksargen – Duque reiterated that the 4S 9,107; and Northern Mindanao – 8,739 strategy remains the most effective for the period of January to June 29 this way to prevent dengue cases and year. deaths. This includes: Search and

“Dengue cases have been observed to peak every three to four years. The last peak occurred in 2016, given this pattern, the DOH expects an increase in cases this year,” Duque said.

Even though dengue is a viral disease which can’t be cured through antibiotics and vaccines, Duque stressed that early detection and proper case management can prevent deaths due to it.

“Effective surveillance can also help in reducing cases and deaths if areas with clustering of cases are identified early. Signs and symptoms

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destroy mosquito breeding places; Self-protective measures like wearing long sleeves and use of insect repellent; Seek early consultation on the first signs and symptoms of the disease; and Say yes to fogging if there is an impending outbreak.

In coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC), through Undersecretary Ricardo Jalad of the Office of Civil Defense, code blue alert is activated.

The DOH as lead agency, will be convening the NDRRMC Health Cluster.

(PNA)

JULY 13-19, 2019

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